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"Of course I do But they think ere lost at sea Isn’t that better than knoe’re going to be executed?"

"He said--"

"Don’t be a fool The law is clear Plus he has executed hundreds of icians Why would we be the exception?"

Norerations--fear was a powerful motivator--but this time, it irked hiicians, and if you two don’t shut up and go to sleep, I’ll add two more to my total"

He lay back down The number had been an estiate reports of a teen with powers, he’d arrived and soon after, the person with ed for him or her to escape across the border Everyone believed he’d killed the teen Even the Commander

Hedda and Arbon had both accused him of blind loyalty And while he’d been loyal to the Commander all these years, he hadn’t been as blind nor as completely obedient as everyone assumed

When Valek arrived in the stable the next ray horse named Smoke were saddled and ready for travel Zohav and Zethan kept their distance while the stable boy tied on their bags They’d acquired fresh uniforarrison’s cos for hot spots His coat gleamed and the black horse appeared healthy "Tell S "Zethan, you’ll ride Smoke, and Zohav, you’re with me"

The girl frowned, but she listened to the stable boy’s instructions and soon settled behind Valek Zethan also received a quick lesson on how to rinned in anticipation Just like Valek’s older twin brothers--Victor had been cautious and protective, while Vilia into any adventure

Valek turned to Zohav "Which way?"

She pressed her lips together, but then told hier for the exercise, Onyx set a fast pace Valek glanced at Zethan, who bounced in the saddle, but appeared to be enjoying the speed

When Onyx finally slowed, Valek rode beside Smoke "How did you end up on the coast?" he asked Zethan

Zethan glanced at his sister, as if seeking permission to speak After a brief hesitation, he said, "After we turned fourteen, it becaic Our father searched for a teacher to help us learn how to control it before anyone found out Nell" He paused and sed, staring at his hands, gripping the reins ht us these last two years She hashad the ability to call the wind, and she used it when sailing or to beat all the other fishing boats to the prime spots"

"What are your abilities?" Valek asked

"Zee," Zohav warned